## Toyota to Oversee Model Certification at Daihatsu Following Safety Scandal
In the wake of a safety testing scandal, Toyota Motor Corp. will take over model certification at its subsidiary Daihatsu in an effort to regain trust among stakeholders. This was announced by Daihatsu's new president, Masahiro Inoue, who took the helm in March.
Inoue, who previously oversaw Toyota's business in South America, expressed his commitment to reviving Daihatsu. He acknowledged the need for improved communication and a shift in work culture, stating that "All of Daihatsu, as one team, will work hard so people can feel our vehicles are safe. We are about to make a big change."
The scandal involved widespread cheating on safety testing, with violations such as testing only one side of a car instead of both. This led to a government-ordered production halt at Daihatsu until proper tests could be conducted and a system implemented to prevent recurrence.
Inoue apologized for the misconduct and emphasized that safety takes precedence over market share. He acknowledged that the pressure to deliver products quickly contributed to the issue.
Executive Vice President Masanori Kuwata, also from Toyota, stressed the need for a fundamental change in work practices at Daihatsu. He stated that "There is no one quick fix, but we hope to restore positive energy among the ranks."
The scandal has raised questions about oversight at Daihatsu, which is wholly owned by Toyota. While no major accidents have been reported in connection with the cheating, the incident has damaged the company's reputation and shaken public trust.
Toyota's involvement in model certification is seen as a crucial step towards restoring confidence in Daihatsu. The company's expertise and resources are expected to help improve testing procedures and ensure the safety of Daihatsu vehicles.